Operation GOREALM Delivers Major Success Against Organised Vehicle Crime

Operation GOREALM, a proactive investigation launched in September 2025 in response to a significant rise in high-value keyless vehicle thefts across the South West BCU.

What began as a concerning increase in thefts of high value vehicles quickly developed into a complex investigation targeting an organised Lithuanian crime group believed to be responsible for stealing around £750,000 worth of vehicles in SW London alone.

The operation was led by the South West proactive team and consisted of months of detailed research, intelligence development and proactive work which built a comprehensive picture of the offending. Working closely with the Organised Vehicle Crime Unit (OVCU), neighbouring BCUs and other policing partners, the team identified suspects, linked offences across force areas and uncovered evidence of stolen vehicles being moved and dismantled for export.

The operation culminated on 21 August 2026, when four Warrants were executed across London, Peterborough and the West Midlands. Four key suspects were arrested, and officers recovered a wealth of evidence, including cloned vehicles, specialist vehicle theft equipment, mobile phones and other items linking the group to the conspiracy.

Following extensive post-arrest work, all four suspects were charged with conspiracy to steal motor vehicles between July 2025 and August 2026.

This is a fantastic example of a true "cradle to grave" investigation and showcases the determination, professionalism and collaboration of teams across South West and the wider MPS.

The operation represents a significant disruption to organised vehicle crime to help make our communities safer.